Racing: Training site saga goes on

The long-running issue of a new thoroughbred training track for Auckland has become longer running.

An announcement had been expected yesterday on a replacement venue for the Takanini training centre, which is to be closed.

But the Auckland Racing Club, which owns the Takanini site, last night issued a brief press release which said there would be further delay.

"The board [of the ARC] is taking further advice and is disappointed that it cannot release any further information at this time."

A presentation of an independent report on the matter by Michael Stiassny of chartered accountants Ferrier, Hodgson was made to the board last Thursday.

Its contents were not made public with ARC chairman Colin Devine promising a decision by yesterday.

Yesterday's statement said the board had again met yesterday with Stiassny and a report of his findings would be made to a forum of club members on August 25.

Originally, about five years ago, it had been proposed by the club that a new training venue be developed near Auckland Airport at Prices Road in Mangere.

However, there has since been arguments to develop the Pukekohe training track in south Auckland or look at a different venue.

- NZPA